Welcome to the China-MENA podcast. In this episode, host Jonathan Fulton discusses China's influence on the air domain in the Middle East and North Africa with guests Dr. Assaf Heller and Sarah-Masha Fainberg. They explore potential biases in analyzing China's strategy, its limited security role, concerns about its presence, and its strategic objectives in the region. Gain insights into the implications of China's expanding presence and its effects on military capabilities. Tune in for a thought-provoking conversation on this important topic. Takeaways Presence in the MENA RegionImplications on the Air Domain and Military CapabilitiesConcerns about Chinese Exports and Technology TransfersChinese Technology Transfers and Impact on the Air DomainUnderstanding China's Presence in the RegionQuotes "The Chinese influence in the Middle East should not be overlooked. It encompasses both strategic and operational impact, and we must consider it seriously."- Dr. Assaf Heller "China seeks to restore and preserve its position as a global power through a national rejuvenation journey." - Sarah-Masha Fainberg Featured in the Episode Dr. Assaf Heller​​ Colonel Reserves Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/assaf-heller-242323137/ Sarah-Masha Fainberg Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-masha-fainberg-phd-2602821a9/ Jonathan Fulton Nonresident Senior Fellow for Middle East Programs at the Atlantic Council. Assistant Professor of Political Science at Zayed University in Abu Dhabi https://ae.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-fulton-2627414bhttps://twitter.com/jonathandfulton Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 03:53 - Sophisticated Weapon Systems: Development and Transfer by China 07:54 - Balancing China's Strategic Objectives: The Key Challenge 13:42 - Shifting Stance: China's Evolving Role in the Middle East 17:03 - Arab and Jewish Political Influence: Examining China's Perspective 20:59 - Seeking an Unbiased Operational Perspective: Hope of Analysts 22:34 - Potential Confrontation and Implications: Israel-China Dynamics 28:08 - Military-Civil Fusion Concerns: Exploring the Chinese MCF Concept 31:42 - Technology and Arms Exports: Concerns over China's Influence 35:47 - Beto Satellites and Dual Technology Purpose: China's Approach 36:49 - Cooperation Agreements: Lack of Specific and Quantifiable Details 42:41 - Impact on Regional Security: Discussing China's Technological Influence 44:55 - Forecasting Advanced Technology and Arms Transfers by China 47:23 - Seizing Opportunities: China's Role in the Middle East 52:10 - Conclusion